South Africa faces a youth unemployment crisis, with nearly 60% of young people unable to access work and more than 40% leaving school before Grade 11. Limited career guidance, low self-belief, and lack of early support make it difficult for youth to imagine or prepare for their futures. IAWA intervenes early—starting in Grade 8—to build confidence, purpose, and clear pathways to tertiary education and employment so youth can confidently own their future.
Pathways to Purpose
Target Audience: Secondary School
Pathways to Purpose is our flagship multi-year journey designed to prevent school disengagement by starting early—before youth reach the grades where dropout is most common. Beginning in Grade 8, youth participate in a four-year sequence of holiday workshops. By aligning purpose, skills, and exposure at every stage, Pathways to Purpose directly targets the factors that lead to dropout. Youth finish the program with a clear vision for their lives and a concrete understanding of the steps needed to pursue tertiary studies or meaningful employment.
Work Readiness Master Classes
Target Audience: Ages 18+
The Work Readiness Master Classes directly address South Africa’s youth unemployment challenge by equipping young adults with practical, marketable skills. These master classes create a bridge to employment by connecting youth to networks, professional insights, and real-world expectations—ensuring they are prepared not just to find opportunities, but to succeed and advance within them.
Youth Symposium
Target Audience: Ages 18–29
The Youth Symposium provides a vibrant, multi-age platform for learning, expression, and leadership development. This flagship event disrupts isolation by creating community, visibility, and belonging—especially for youth who rarely see themselves reflected in leadership spaces. The Symposium helps participants envision new possibilities and take tangible steps toward their dreams.
